Tuesday, June 10, 2014

"silence"

Recently I taught a class on silence, during which, I talked a lot - (James 3 was the centerpiece)When I was about 8 or 9 years old I wanted to know what my name, "Tate" meant; My dad told me he had watched a movie ,in that move their was a cowboy and an indian with a broken or missing arm, one of those two was named Tate. And he liked the name. And although I am primarily Italian I do have some Native American blood in me. During my childhood search of my name's meaning I came upon a name book. It was large, dusty and musty with that basement mold smell about it. I can still remember where I was as I leafed to the "T's". My childhood home foyer, a spot where the light was dim. As I got to the "T's", was I to find the meaning of my name....was it be revealed?! AND THERE IT WAS - - - - Tate - Native American Origin "Talks too much"So there you have it - I am Native American albeit a small percentage and I def talk way to much. So I noticed something. My dad is getting older in the neighborhood of 75 years old and as this process happens he has become quieter. Not that he talked incessantly mind you, but when he talked you felt it. It could sting, hurt, inflict damage and damage it had inflicted. Can't really throw any rocks at my dad as I talk more than he does (primarily for his attention) and in doing so I too, inflict damage. Here's the bottom line. My dad was over Sunday night for some oysters/steak/chicken a fire and family. As you get older, you get quieter. He was quiet. I liked him better.I think I need to be quieter. As my dad was quieter I didn't flinch as he was not jabbing with his powerful words. Words are mighty powerful. They are biting and as much as I was taught that "sticks and stones may break my bones and words will never hurt me".....it's a lie. Words have hurt me and MORE IMPORTANTLY....my words have hurt. May my mouth be thoughtful and not as much thoughtful with my brain, but with my heart and may my heart seek wisdom from above. If you are inclined. Read James chapter 3 in the bible. I promise.....it won't hurt you. Only man can hurt you, not God.